When Will AI Replace Serrurier et réparateur de coffres-forts ?

The impact of AI on locksmiths and safe repairers will be gradual. Early automation, affecting 15-20% of the industry, is expected between 2029 and 2032. This wave will primarily target those in routine residential lock installation or operating automated key-cutting kiosks. By 2036, approximately 20% of all locksmith tasks will be automated, focusing on mass-market installations and basic key duplication.

The early wave of automation, predicted between 2029-2032, will most significantly impact locksmiths involved in routine residential lock installation and those working with automated key-cutting kiosks. These specific roles represent a smaller segment, estimated at 15-20% of the locksmith industry, indicating a focused rather than widespread initial disruption.

Looking further ahead, by 2036, about 20% of overall tasks within the locksmith and safe repair profession will be subject to automation. This mid-wave transformation will center on more standardized processes like mass-market lock installation and basic key duplication, while complex and emergency-related services will see minimal changes.

Locksmiths focused on routine residential lock installation or operating automated key-cutting kiosks are most vulnerable to early AI-driven automation, with displacement anticipated between 2029 and 2032. These roles represent about 15-20% of the industry, suggesting that a significant portion of locksmiths will not be immediately affected by these initial changes.

Locksmiths specializing in emergency services, such as responding to lockouts or break-in repairs, as well as those in high-security commercial work and safe servicing, are highly protected. These roles demand unique human skills that AI cannot replicate, ensuring minimal automation impact through 2040 and beyond, offering exceptional job security.

To navigate the evolving landscape, focus on developing and highlighting irreplaceable human skills. Emphasize your manual dexterity in non-standard environments, your ability to problem-solve in emergency situations, and the customer trust you build in security-sensitive contexts. Continuous learning in diverse mechanical and electronic systems will further solidify your position.

For locksmiths in vulnerable areas like routine residential installations, consider upskilling into specialized areas such as high-security commercial work or advanced safe servicing. By mastering complex mechanical and electronic systems and honing your emergency response capabilities, you can future-proof your career against AI automation.